Who's next, as England attempt to solve batting woes?

England will need at least one new face in the batting line-up for the third Test against South Africa after Gary Ballance suffered a broken finger

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Are changes needed in England's top six?

England will need at least one new face in the batting line-up for the third Test against South Africa after Gary Ballance suffered a broken finger. Here are five candidates to address the on-going issues they have at the top of the order

The Surrey opener, who moved from Durham over the winter, appears the frontrunner for a call-up. He was close to selection for the beginning of the series after an impressive start with his new county. He is averaging 58.53 from eight Championship matches, including three centuries with a high score of 197, but it is also the runs he scored for Durham, often in seamer-friendly conditions at Chester-le-Street where he averaged over 53 last season, which stand him in good stead. At 30 he has had time to groove a well-rounded game.

Malan has moved up England's red-ball pecking order over the last few months despite not having the most stand-out figures among the batting contenders. It has been Malan's character as much as his runs which has impressed. He made his England debut last month in the deciding T20 against South Africa, where he starred with a series-winning 78 off 44 balls in Cardiff. Like Stoneman, he was a contender at the start of the Test series before the selectors went for the more conservative option of recalling Ballance.

Often mentioned as a potential Test player over the last couple of seasons, Westley has enjoyed a timely prolific run with three centuries in his last six first-class innings, the most recent being an unbeaten 106 for England Lions against the South Africans. That hundred continued a notable record of making runs against touring sides: last season he scored 108 against the Sri Lankans to follow a 99 against the same opposition in 2011, while in 2015 he scored 144 against an Australian attack including Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Siddle and Nathan Lyon.

Hameed looked to have the opening berth sewn up for the foreseeable future after a polished start against India, where his composure stood out. However, a broken finger in suffered in Mohali - which didn't stop him making a defiant 59 not out in the second innings - meant he missed the final two Tests of the series. He returned for England Lions in Sri Lanka but didn't pass 15 in four innings and the lean run continued in the County Championship for Lancashire, where he hasn't reached fifty this season. He isn't the first young player to have suffered second-season syndrome but there is also the concern that a few technical issues may have been exposed. With the Championship currently suspended for the T20 Blast, his chances to impress are limited, but he did score a century for the 2nd XI this week.

Another player with previous Test experience - having played all seven Tests in the 2014 season against Sri Lanka and India, including a century in his second match - Robson remains a prolific county scorer who is pushing hard for a second chance at the top level. He has scored 534 runs in nine innings this season, either side of suffering a hamstring strain, and was part of the England Lions side. His tally would have been even more impressive but for a pair in his most recent outing against Warwickshire.

Hameed should be in the England team as he has the temperament England need. England shouldn't go for a player who is 30 and averages 34, they need Hameed in the ashes. 1. Cook 2. Hameed 3. Jennings 4. Root 5. Westley 6. Bairstow 7. Stokes 8. Moeen 9. TBJ 10.Broad 11. Anderson

lekhjo0830397
on July 20, 2017, 10:51 GMT

Hameed has a very good temperament and thats what england need not a 30 yr old with a average of 34

A
on July 20, 2017, 10:39 GMT

Putting novices in as openers is not a good a plan - any 'future stars' should be groomed into test cricket by batting six. If Jennings or Hameed fit this bill - they should be used as such. Jennings' career, confidence etc. is now in the balance given what's transpired in this series. In South Africa, this is used as a tactic to permanently destroy careers. Surprisingly - after throwing him under the bus in NZ - selected de Bruyn at six at Lord's and should do so too with Markram. Markram in particular may very well become an excellent opener in time.

SA have taken the pragmatic approach and have selected two experienced grinders - to negate the new ball threat and have done so with aplomb in England - given that there are no genuinely talented experienced opening batsmen in SA. Elgar's runs are not pretty but exceptionally valuable. England could learn from this.

andrew
on July 20, 2017, 10:18 GMT

As a Middlesex fan I have to say it would be a huge punt to select Malan. He's a real one-day asset but just doesn't score enough runs in first class games. From Middlesex Robson would be a much better option - but I'd go for Stoneman based on his consistent form this season and last.

Ray
on July 20, 2017, 10:11 GMT

A few years back, Peter Crouch was playing for Liverpool and hadn't scored in about 15 games. Liverpool fans then started a tongue-in-cheek campaign to get Crouch elected as 'Sports Personality of the Year'. I can only assume those calling for Ian Bell's return to the England Test team have started a similar campaign.

Ray
on July 20, 2017, 10:10 GMT

Averages don't tell the whole story but they do give an indication of a player's form. Stoneman is averaging 50 over the past 2 seasons which suggests he's in consistently good form. Unfortunately, the opposite is true of Hameed.

RanilHerath-uk
on July 20, 2017, 10:07 GMT

The best bet is Stoneman, he has been knocking on the door & was unfortunate not to be selected over Ballance at the beginning.

riaz
on July 20, 2017, 9:56 GMT

My posts have not been getting through but hope this one does. It is crucial that Root, as captain, show the mental fortitude to go back to 3 and takei t on the chin. That frees up a middle order slot, rather than have yet another opener in the side and have him come down at 3.

It should look like Cook, Jennings, Root, Bairstow, Ali, Stokes

Saifullah Farooqui
on July 20, 2017, 9:42 GMT

Averages of english batsman shows that they lack temperament .

Shay
on July 20, 2017, 17:48 GMT

So in ENG T20 fifty's gets you a Test cap!

lekhjo0830397
on July 20, 2017, 11:25 GMT

Hameed should be in the England team as he has the temperament England need. England shouldn't go for a player who is 30 and averages 34, they need Hameed in the ashes. 1. Cook 2. Hameed 3. Jennings 4. Root 5. Westley 6. Bairstow 7. Stokes 8. Moeen 9. TBJ 10.Broad 11. Anderson

lekhjo0830397
on July 20, 2017, 10:51 GMT

Hameed has a very good temperament and thats what england need not a 30 yr old with a average of 34

A
on July 20, 2017, 10:39 GMT

Putting novices in as openers is not a good a plan - any 'future stars' should be groomed into test cricket by batting six. If Jennings or Hameed fit this bill - they should be used as such. Jennings' career, confidence etc. is now in the balance given what's transpired in this series. In South Africa, this is used as a tactic to permanently destroy careers. Surprisingly - after throwing him under the bus in NZ - selected de Bruyn at six at Lord's and should do so too with Markram. Markram in particular may very well become an excellent opener in time.

SA have taken the pragmatic approach and have selected two experienced grinders - to negate the new ball threat and have done so with aplomb in England - given that there are no genuinely talented experienced opening batsmen in SA. Elgar's runs are not pretty but exceptionally valuable. England could learn from this.

andrew
on July 20, 2017, 10:18 GMT

As a Middlesex fan I have to say it would be a huge punt to select Malan. He's a real one-day asset but just doesn't score enough runs in first class games. From Middlesex Robson would be a much better option - but I'd go for Stoneman based on his consistent form this season and last.

Ray
on July 20, 2017, 10:11 GMT

A few years back, Peter Crouch was playing for Liverpool and hadn't scored in about 15 games. Liverpool fans then started a tongue-in-cheek campaign to get Crouch elected as 'Sports Personality of the Year'. I can only assume those calling for Ian Bell's return to the England Test team have started a similar campaign.

Ray
on July 20, 2017, 10:10 GMT

Averages don't tell the whole story but they do give an indication of a player's form. Stoneman is averaging 50 over the past 2 seasons which suggests he's in consistently good form. Unfortunately, the opposite is true of Hameed.

RanilHerath-uk
on July 20, 2017, 10:07 GMT

The best bet is Stoneman, he has been knocking on the door & was unfortunate not to be selected over Ballance at the beginning.

riaz
on July 20, 2017, 9:56 GMT

My posts have not been getting through but hope this one does. It is crucial that Root, as captain, show the mental fortitude to go back to 3 and takei t on the chin. That frees up a middle order slot, rather than have yet another opener in the side and have him come down at 3.

It should look like Cook, Jennings, Root, Bairstow, Ali, Stokes

Saifullah Farooqui
on July 20, 2017, 9:42 GMT

Averages of english batsman shows that they lack temperament .

mj39168129558
on July 20, 2017, 9:39 GMT

Hick and Ramprakash averaged way over 40 in county cricket, Vaughan and Trescothick about 30 when they were picked. Who had the better test careers?

george1263318
on July 20, 2017, 9:39 GMT

Anyone suggesting Ian Bell should be recalled must be from another planet, unless this is a different Ian Bell to the one who finally got dropped after under-performing for about 2 years and went back to Warwickshire where he would also be dropped if the rest of their batting line-up wasn't so poor. Anyone mentioning KP is clearly on the wind-up because there's more chance of the Aussies saying they'll play for free than that ever happening. And Hameed? Really? His form is dreadful in the championship, he failed in both innings for the Lions against SA and people think he'll be fine coming up against Philander, Rabada and Morkel? His biggest strength is his ability to leave the ball well, his dismissals this year show that he isn't doing that, it would be utter madness to select him right now. Personally I would drop Jennings for Rory Burns, Stoneman at 3, Westley in for Dawson at 5 allowing Bairstow to drop back to 7 and Moeen 8.

Iman
on July 20, 2017, 9:36 GMT

Hasib Hameed has serious technical issues against the short ball. It was first brought to notice in a practice match England played against Bangladesh. Taskin Ahmed peppered him with some short stuff and he looked uncomfortable. The Indian team management picked up on that a little later, and when they did, a much quicker Umesh Yadav went after him and made him hop. In that aforementioned innings as well he was jumping and fending Umesh Yadav's short balls, and was hit many times on the arm and body before one fractured his finger. On a subcontinent track, he was like a cat on a hot tin roof against short stuff from a fast bowlers, if he opens next match and the track is even remotely similar to English conditions, he would be a Canon fodder in front of Rabada Morris and company. Word travels fast in international cricket, and I am sure a side like South Africa would have done their homework. He's a talented bloke, with good temperament. And still very young. So there's enough time for him to work on his technique and improve, but under current circumstances, there's no point in exposing him to this South African attack at the top and further jeopardise his already doubtful career. Let him play county cricket for a few more seasons and work on the lacuna. Because unless he does, with his abilities against short ball, I don't see a long successful career in test match cricket for him.

Kieran0978593
on July 20, 2017, 9:31 GMT

I think I'd opt for Samit Patel or Sam Northeast. Patel in particular can be a swap in for Dawson.

Lloyd
on July 20, 2017, 9:27 GMT

I think England are wasting their all rounders by selecting two spinners. they have four seamers so just bring in an extra batsmen. simple. They could have guys capable of scoring hundreds all the way up to 8 along with 4 seamers and a spinner.

A selection of something like: Cook, Jennings, Stoneman, Root, Malan/Westly, Bairstow, Stokes, Ali, Broad, Anderson, Finn
looks more solid. Another guy is Ben Foaks who could be brought in if they decide that Bairstow has too much work to do with the gloves, then the batting order would be adjusted accordingly.

Lee
on July 20, 2017, 9:18 GMT

Stoneman to open...jennings at 3 please... Leach or Crane for Dawson. RTJ for Wood...

Sunil
on July 20, 2017, 9:07 GMT

None of the batsmen mentioned above average's 40..

Dennis
on July 20, 2017, 9:01 GMT

Root to open with Cook. Stoneman to debut at 3, Robson, Jennings, Stokes, Bairstow, Ali, Broad, Rashid/Leach and Anderson. Prepare a flat pitch with little assistance to spinners and then we can play that team I mentioned above and match SA. We can't best SA on a seamer friendly pitch and FAF is too good a captain to out-think. We don't need 3 outright seamers at Oval. Stokes and Jennings can cover that up.

alfred
on July 20, 2017, 8:53 GMT

Not much to choose from at all, the fact that Malan's 78 off 44 balls is mentioned says it all. Since when is a t/20 half century looked at as being the basis for test selection? Incredible really... Cook, Hameed, Stoneman, Root, Westley, Bairstow, Moin, Stokes (until Woakes is fit), Broad, Roland-Jones, Anderson.

cricfan1200106436
on July 20, 2017, 8:51 GMT

Jennings is not technically sound Batsman.He needs to be pulled out from England test squad Instead Hales needs to get in.

Saifullah Farooqui
on July 20, 2017, 8:50 GMT

Most of the guys averaging less than 40 .

paul
on July 20, 2017, 8:41 GMT

Sam Northeast, class act.

mustaf8926212
on July 20, 2017, 8:31 GMT

If I was in England management to pick a team against South Africa for third test I would make three changes:

Haseeb Hameed in place of Jennings who looked completely out of sorts. Irrespective of his recent domestic form,Hameed showed in his performances against India that he has a strong mindset that counts a lot at international level.

Dawid Malan in place of Gary Ballance who impressed one and all in his T20 debut and played pretty well in PSL as well.

Adil Rashid in place of Dawson to bring variety into england attack and use it as a wicket taking option rather than being defensive with Dawson

ahmede7330511
on July 20, 2017, 8:29 GMT

Moee Ali can be batter option than Jennings as an opener, Jennings not a good batsman with his techniques

castro6065533
on July 20, 2017, 8:14 GMT

Not a especially inspiring list, especially when you look at career averages. Only time will tell for sure but it looks like the top order batsman cupboard is close to empty.

Unfortunately Samit Patel is to fat to get through the door of the team bus.

clement
on July 20, 2017, 7:27 GMT

what has happened to Alex Hales. Is he injured

Zenek Szulc
on July 20, 2017, 7:21 GMT

Asking for Hameed to open is borderline negligent. Yes, he's a massive talent and seems to have a good head on him. But he's very young and inexperienced and going through a patch of really quite bad form; he hasn't scored a 50 this season and averages 17.15. Asking him to step up against the likes of Philander and Morkel is setting him up for failure.

He's scored a century in a seconds match so hopefully he's returning to some sort of form but let's not rush it.

As for the #3 position, I'd like to see Westley, although whoever it is I'd personally rather push an opener down a sport (say, Stoneman, as an example) rather than push up a middle order player like Ballance again who, for all his flaws, has not been helped by the promotion.

Ian
on July 20, 2017, 7:12 GMT

Kevin Pieter Pietersen :P

Tom
on July 20, 2017, 7:09 GMT

VARUN AKAVOOR ON JULY 20, 2017, 5:13 GMT
All these players have their first class averages in thirties. Really no one else?
-------------------------------------
They play in England. Where it's difficult for openers/number 3. At least if Kohli's record is anything to go by - he'd love to get his average in England up to 30. Or even 15.

Mojalefa
on July 20, 2017, 6:19 GMT

Hi Guys. I'm a South African who always supports England test team against any other countries because most of their batsmen are from SA. Anyway, calls are being made by English supporters and former players and I don't think they realize that the SA bowling attack is very much strong and powerful and whoever they want to come in will not make any difference in the batting line up. But I promise you that Keaton and Hameed are the future and they are gonna excel against Aussies and other Nations but the can't do it against SA. They shouldn't play Hameed in this current series because his failures will be seen as not talented and it'll demoralize him for a very long time. Cheers Everybody

Cricinfouser
on July 20, 2017, 6:15 GMT

There is a huge jump from any first class set up to test cricket, which is not in another class but a class of its own. The adjustment of technique and talent perhaps not as important as the mind set that is required in test cricket. For this to develop, players need to be given a fair and extended run. The strategy, perform or you're out, places an added burden on the mind in an arena that psychologically already overloeads a new comer.

Gururaj
on July 20, 2017, 5:59 GMT

I would pick Hameed as an opener. Yes, he may not be in top form in the county but what matters is the international cricket. He looked really composed and organized against India and he surely can cope up with international standards. Rostan Chase didn't score too many in domestic cricket but averaged 100 against quality Pakistan attack in the recent series and is a great example to demonstrate that players who belonged to top level standards will do alright despite their lack of form and after all, it hardly takes a couple of good shots to be back in form!

awahid1982050
on July 20, 2017, 5:58 GMT

I am all for Hameed. Even though he hasn't had a productive county season so far, he is mentally strong. The South African bowlers were domineering over the English batsmen. No one was able to last long except for Joe Root. I think it is reasonable to give Hameed one chance, who seems to thrive under pressure.

Varun Akavoor
on July 20, 2017, 5:13 GMT

All these players have their first class averages in thirties. Really no one else?

John
on July 20, 2017, 4:56 GMT

ANDYSE1913510 ON JULY 20, 2017, 3:47 GMT
'Maybe they might want to consider Joe Clarke. ' Well, I agree with that bit of your post. However, you seem to be thinking of another Clarke. Joe plays for Worcestershire, is only just 21 and has a career average of 45, considerably above all those mentioned in the article. He's a very promising player, but he's young and plays in Div. 2. If England gives him a run then they must be prepared to wait for him to adjust. Another really promising prospect is Dan Lawrence, even younger at just turned 20, also with a career average of 45. With an Ashes tour coming up I think more experience is needed. For this game, if Root is determined to bat at #4, bring in a #3. That seems to indicate Westley or Malan and given how Malan handled his ODI debut I might go for him. If Stoneman or Robson come in it should be in place of Jennings, not batting out of position. Hameed needs FC runs under his belt before being brought back.

alansa4022707
on July 20, 2017, 4:25 GMT

It depends if the players mentioned can make the step up from cc to test match cricket .its ok scoring runs against mainly trundlers bowling at 75-79 mph .it seems a shock to some facing the extra pace and or quality spin bowling !

privac6205779
on July 20, 2017, 4:05 GMT

Only way to beat FAF is bring your own rooster to cancel out FAF's Luck. That means liam livingstone must play if England want to draw or win next test. Also bring extra spinner like leach. I mean you can throw out spinner later , it is hire and use positon. Rasheed is no good. He leaks runs and it work against england. They need stingy and Spinning spinner with dip. Any spinner with dip in county? No spinning all rounder who are probably bad as spinner. :)

andyse1913510
on July 20, 2017, 3:47 GMT

Maybe they might want to consider Joe Clarke.

How many runs has he made in his last 4 red-ball games? Isn't it more than 400 runs? For 3 dismissals!?? An average of almost 140 per dismissal over the past month indicated reasonable form.

On the other hand, his career average is considerably lower than all those mentioned above, so maybe he has a relative lack of class. Also, he is very much a short-term option due to being a little over the hill.

Might be worth a mention though.

cricfan9998055323
on July 20, 2017, 3:43 GMT

bring back Bell, hopefully bring back some stability.

Stephen Scott
on July 20, 2017, 2:45 GMT

Maybe the inform Stoneham & Westley for Ballance & Jennings. Cook & Westley have opened together before & bring a LH\RH combination. Some people here are calling for S.Patel, & surely he's a better option than Dawson. And Woakes should replace Wood, although, if there is still doubt on him, go for the inform Coad.

Devinderpal Singh
on July 20, 2017, 1:38 GMT

5 names are mentioned, yet one of the most obvious names is missing: Samit Patel. He has been one of the best performing batsmen in First-class cricket this year, and the 2nd best performer in the One-Day Cup (2nd to Ingram, so the best Englishman), and as a result, he is 5th in the PCA MVP system (2nd best Englishman after Darren Stevens). No garbage of character, likeability or sympathy being offered; simply the best performing batsmen should be considered. Why do people/the ECB find this so difficult? Maybe Samit needs to change his name to Sam William John Patterson to get the recognition he deserves. If other batsmen, e.g. Hales, had the season he has, they'd be talked up a ton, for a fact, seeing as lesser batsmen are. When Ballance has been batting at 3, why are openers named as a replacement, and if you are assuming a change in the order, why not assume Root should bat at 3, when this is the common consensus? Of those in the above list, only Westley warrants consideration.

privac6205779
on July 20, 2017, 1:11 GMT

Hameed will play against australia not against SA. I prefer ugly batsman who can handle pressure than flashy batsman in Test matches. if you don't score against SA bowlers you will fall into SA trap. They want opposition batsman to feel pressure. so test style batting ok if you can convert it to 80s or even century. Hard task to ask young batsman to do. But if you are here to create history you are in right place. If you are here to make a living then top 3 spot is like you are taken to slaughter house. good luck. Get rory burns and liam livingstone.

David
on July 20, 2017, 0:57 GMT

Ian Bell wasn't doing too badly at all when he was dropped, but I think he read the writing on the wall and his returns since then haven't been of note at all unfortunately. Great player.
Interesting to see if they plunk for a right hander somewhere at the top, Jos Butler's my pick, also interesting to see if they move Ali or Stokes up to 3 and pick a defensive minded middle order player, who would be the best option to bat 5 and get dug in?

Jake
on July 20, 2017, 0:34 GMT

The cupboard looks fairly bare going on their first class averages.

SR
on July 19, 2017, 23:55 GMT

With Nick Compton, wasn't there an issue with Cook not exactly taking a shine to Denis' grandson when Cook was the skipper? Part of the problem is this desire to score quickly by England's coaching staff. That's all fine and dandy for ODIs and T20s, but we need someone who can occupy the crease, see off the new ball, frustrate the pacemen with some obstinacy and obdurate batting in test cricket. I'd rather see 0/70 at lunch than 4/120. What happened to temperament? You can't lay the blame entirely on T20. Amla, Faf and Co. play all forms of the game and seem to adjust well for test cricket. Also, if selectors are seriously looking for form, why not reconsider Eoin Morgan in the middle order for test cricket? He has great cricketing nous, and might even be of help to Root as a tactician.

Patrick
on July 19, 2017, 23:55 GMT

I think the plan was Hameed as opener and Jennings at 3 but Hameed is in such poor form right now and for this next match we need guys ready to go. Jennings is also suffering but he got a 100 on debut in India so must have some talent and there are 2 other changes that must be made. Ballance is out so Stoneman comes in and whilst I am one of the few here who sees something in Dawson he isn't needed in any of the upcoming tests so drop him and bring in a batsman, I would go for Malan but suspect they will select Westley. Team for next test: 1.Cook 2.Jennings 3.Stoneman 4.Root 5.Westley/Malan 6.Bairstow 7.Stokes 8.Ali 9.Broad 10.Wood 11.Anderson

Long-term (ie post Cook's retirement) I think Lawrence comes in at 3 with Jennings and Hameed opening. I hope that's not for a long time though, they're all excellent prospects but that 2nd innings, despite getting out to one of the best bouncers I've seen, showed we need the sweatless boring bugger and his 11000+ runs for a while yet.

junaid3107683
on July 19, 2017, 23:43 GMT

ian bell is the perfect replacement for atleast 2 years

Sai
on July 19, 2017, 23:39 GMT

All these batsmen average in 30's. How can these people solve any batting woes? I think England cricket is going back to the 90s now. Joe Root might be the new Michael Clarke whose contemporary cricketers are all so inferior to him. Time to call Ian Bell back, btw, what is Bell doing?

Alex
on July 19, 2017, 22:54 GMT

Hameed won't survive against SA fast bowlers precision. It would end his bubbling career.

Alex
on July 19, 2017, 22:53 GMT

Mark Stoneman, David malan - i would not even pick them if they are not all rounders.
Tom Westley, Samrobson , Rory burns , Liam livingstone are your players. key is find right slot. Only rory burns can open. Liam livingstone is middle order. Westly and sam robson are 3rd down.

Chris
on July 19, 2017, 22:45 GMT

So not a single option with a first class average over 40. That doesn't bode that well. If that lot is the best choice I'd be going with Hameed. As a 20 y/o there's more potential upside, while the others basically seem to have shown that while they might have the odd good season, it balances out to reasonably ordinary overall figures. If Hameed can be averaging 37 as a 20 y/o, then with development maybe he can be a 50+ average guy in a couple of years time. But a good half-season from a 30 y/o with a career average in the mid-30's doesn't really inspire a lot of confidence for them making the step up.

Technical flaws aside, you can understand the Ballance selection if these are the other options. His F/C average is 10 points better than the next best in this list. That's a massive difference! But at test level your flaws will get found out, so you've always got to be working to eliminate those weaknesses from your game if you want to make it!

Bryce
on July 19, 2017, 22:11 GMT

It is ironic that this is the same thing that happened to New Zealand when South Africa visited a few months ago. New Zealand Zealand had crushed Pakistan and Bangladesh at home before South Africa came to visit. They shook up the top order and all of a sudden people are calling for heads to roll. Tom Latham, a previously classy and proven Test performer both home and away, endured a particularly lean run against the menacing South African attack. He had scored runs before that series and has since scored runs after. People easily overlook just how good the South African bowling attack is. New Zealand found that if they played out the seamers then they would lose wickets trying to score off Maharaj. When they tried to score off the seamers they would also lose their wickets. This bowling attack is so tough and build up so much pressure on batsman. To put it in perspective Morne Morkel has 298 wickets@29 in Tests. The other five bowlers have combined 298@23.34. This is what they do.

Hashim
on July 19, 2017, 22:07 GMT

Root need to be gritty while taking decisions, and make a strong squad by himself.

Hashim
on July 19, 2017, 22:06 GMT

None of the above-mentioned candidates look interesting and exciting except Hameed whom I think is going to be an all time great for England. Apart from Hameed, most of them are nearing their 30's, and their first class records are mediocre as well. He may well be out of contention, but Kevin Pietersen will be a great asset if selected (tremendous form - better than most of the players in the current squad)England need to find someone with the calibre like Hameed or KP, otherwise I see them falling down the stairs this year.

Scott
on July 19, 2017, 21:48 GMT

A couple of names Im surprised are never mentioned are Rory Burns of Surrey or Nick Browne of Essex. The problem I see is england have the talent coming through(Think Hameed, Eskinazi, Holden, Lawrence, Clarke Crane and more) but the white ball game and the fact the CC is cramed into the fringes means these lads just arent prepared for test cricket anymore by playing CC cricket.

Gazi
on July 19, 2017, 21:40 GMT

Well,the way Philander,Morkel,Maharaj,Morris has been bowling and on fire Rabada is set to return after his suspension,there's not a lot of chance that a newcomer will make a huge Impact.It's the usual suspects Cook,Root who has to show the way for newcomers and lower order.England also doesn't have a great recent record at the oval,winning 2 and losing 4 of their last 7 tests at the venue,2 of them by innings margin.There's a reason why Eng-SA can't win home test series against each other and SA's bowling lineup is simply more potent.I expect SA to at least keep their unbeaten record in away test series against England since readmission If they doesn't win the series.

ahadd
on July 19, 2017, 21:31 GMT

England's batting problem is one of application. South Africa's bowlers are performing under the astute leadership of Faf Du Plessis. The Englishmen are against a well- balanced attack and any flaws in technical deficiency will be exposed. This is test cricket at its best. Every ball has to be played on merit. Jennings is a rookie and has much to learn. Gary Ballance has to improve by leaps and bounds to be at test standard. Joe Root has to remain focused; any weakness he has will be exploited. Ben Stokes is an attacking player; he has to play his game and not be buckled down. Moean Ali has to bat like he can and not give away his wicket. But batting is not only England's problem. There bowlers have conceded too many runs. Wood,Dawson, Jennings and Ballance should be replaced.

Anantha
on July 19, 2017, 20:58 GMT

Why is Livingstone not in the mix?

Six
on July 19, 2017, 20:36 GMT

Just to add. Pietersen's international t20 average is higher than Jennings's First class average. That really does make miserable and laughable reading for England and their selectors.

Six
on July 19, 2017, 20:36 GMT

Is it impossible for England to pick Pietersen? New coach and new captain. England MUST drop Dawson. They have too much bowling and not enough batting. Bairstow has to slide down to 7 if he's keeping. This opens up a slot at 3 and 5. Root in theory could move to 3 or even to 5. I look at the figures and no one screams out for selection at all from 3 to 5. I said below take a punt on Roy. But should it be Pietersen? Cook could open, but I prefer to move him to 3. I'd rather bat Cook 3 than bat an opener in CC cricket at 3 on debut. As mentioned i like Burns and Stoneman as they bat together in FC cricket and have done great this season. But I like the look of 1. Burns 2. Stoneman 3. Cook 4. Root/Pietersen 5. Pietersen/Root 6. Stokes 7. Bairstow (wk) 8. Moeen 9. Broad 10. Coad 11. Anderson. That's my side if I'm picking it (on a re-think from Roy at 5) after seeing Pietersen's form tonight. If England pick Pietersen the ground will be full every day and that says everything.

mdshah0368906
on July 19, 2017, 19:50 GMT

Hameed is the perfect choice for them.

Ian
on July 19, 2017, 19:48 GMT

Will all the talk that "Mo Ali is a batsman who bowls" see him bat higher up the order? Personally, I think he's too valuable where he is. I think Stoneman has earned a trial, and I think maybe open with him and moving Jennings to number 3.

David
on July 19, 2017, 19:40 GMT

The problem is that England forces all its best players into international retirement by the time they're 32.

malhar1424912
on July 19, 2017, 19:26 GMT

England's 3,4.5 should be hameed, root and stokes. They are there best batsman. Where as Jason Roy and cook should open. And at 6 bairstow 7 Moen Ali. Now 4 bowlers Anderson, broad. Wood, (anyone who could pick wickets).

cricfan6541685583
on July 19, 2017, 19:19 GMT

Madsen(derby) might get chance in t20.. soon.. he have some brilliant shot selection and talent too..

revant2851399
on July 19, 2017, 19:16 GMT

During 2004 to 2013 period England maintained a very good Test Team which is filled with specialist openers - Strauss,Trescothick ,Cook. Strong Middle order - Vaughan,Peterson,Bell,Trott. Good all-rounders - Flintoff, Collingwood.
Wk - Prior. Specialist spinners - Giles,Panesar,Swann. Excellent seam bowlers - Harmison, Broad, Anderson.But present Eng Team is
rubbish,they want to play more all-rounders like short format.There are no replacements for Strauss, Peterson,Trott since 2013 and no specialist spinner.Eng should find replacements quickly.For 3rd Test Eng should play 5 specialist batsmen and 1 wk batsman.Stokes as Allrounder is ok.Please remove Ali and get specialist spinner like Swann who concentrate only on bowling and 3 seam bowlers.I can't imagine Eng once Cook,Broad, Anderson retire.Eng should more focus on Tests.And I am sure they don't win this 2019 WC.

Ajmal
on July 19, 2017, 19:14 GMT

Certainly, Balance is not providing any balance in England's batting order. England always must have the equal combination of Experience and Youth. They must go for Ian Bell.
When they are having mixed bowling attack, why can't the go for the same ratio in batting?. When you are analysing the county performance, it will end up with confusion. most of the players are a seasonal performer. How many players did England introduce recently Lyth, Robson, Hameed, Jennings etc. No one looks the going head for long term career.

cricfan6541685583
on July 19, 2017, 19:14 GMT

They should try samit patel..

Rob
on July 19, 2017, 19:09 GMT

see Ian Bell's family is in tonight...

Keith
on July 19, 2017, 19:06 GMT

FAIZUDDIN and PRATEE2082377 - I have long been a huge fan of Ian Bell, but he really had lost form in Tests and seemed extremely out of touch. Sadly, there was little option but to drop him.

Stephen
on July 19, 2017, 18:46 GMT

I thank Rhandomguy Jones should play, hear his name a lot

pratee2082377
on July 19, 2017, 18:30 GMT

I am very disappointed with IAN BELL omission after KP. Both the batsmen formed very good middle order. I think bell is not being selected for the same reason as KP.
England has not treated Bell very well. Bell and KP were fluent batsmen. Cook is not fluent even he has scored 11000 runs. As an indian fan i am very disapponted with Bell's omission.

the placeholder
on July 19, 2017, 18:23 GMT

can't believe Dan Lawrence didn't make the list

mj39168129558
on July 19, 2017, 18:00 GMT

On a positive note Bairstow has been fantastic behind the stumps, which puts to bed the theory we need to play a different specialist keeper.

Farzain
on July 19, 2017, 17:46 GMT

Well from test match 1 I wanted Haseeb. Shocked he was not selected and baffled when a tanker like balance was preferred. Plus they need Curran in who is young and can bat, brings energy like Woakes.

asgara0580925
on July 19, 2017, 17:40 GMT

I think Hameed should open with Cook followed by Janings, Root, Bairastaw, Stoke, Moin, Rashid/Dowsan,Wood,Broad, Anderson

Faizuddin
on July 19, 2017, 17:32 GMT

Can anyone tell me what happened to Ian Bell?...I know its a step backward, but sometimes taking a step back is good for you. The younger players are all coming cropper, this policy of not going back to your experienced players has been hurting england in last 2 years...Kevin Petersen and Monty Panesar are other names which come to my mind

Michael
on July 19, 2017, 17:11 GMT

While I did not support Ballance in the team,it is unfortunate that his finger has been broken. However it does open up a space and probably I would go with Stoneman as a real batsman. Athers says he is a natural batsman,as opposed to a manufactured one. Who is anyone to disagree with Athers? My 'favourite' pick would also be to go with Roy,though maybe he's had a poor time of it. He has the class overall and and the flair to do well and he understands the international culture. For the time though Jennings should remain in the side. re Westley I do see many good reports so one day maybe.
The form of Wood is troubling especially as he dropped in apce. Also my vote would go to Rashid...how many times do I have to say this? Dawson,for all his presence of mind at demanding a review, is not a necessary pick.

Ameer Hamza
on July 19, 2017, 17:10 GMT

Hameed much better with average of 43.

Fiona
on July 19, 2017, 16:59 GMT

U don't understand why Bayliss doesn't have scouts watching all the counties consistently who can spot potential, attitude, application and guts? Also can someone explain to me why dropping Ballance down to 5 will mean his dodgy technique will miraculously disappear?

SR
on July 19, 2017, 16:52 GMT

Here's a suggestion: Get rid of all the selectors, at least one of whom has only played one more test than I have, and bring in people who can find and nurture talent. Not only had poor Jennings been found wanting, but Philander, Morkel, Morris, Rabada and Co. have figured out our left-hand openers. So the selectors' plan is to toss in another southpaw? How about bringing in a right-handed batsman just to make it a bit more difficult, if you will, for the South African bowlers, make them have to think about line and length possibly every other delivery? This isn't rocket science. Hameed and Robson have proved themselves at the test level, so why not give them both a go? If they don't exactly click initially, you have Number 3 coming in at, say, 1/25. How exactly is that different from the tripe we have now? If they click, then we're off to the raises. But, at least, these two have the temperament to be test batsmen, something that seems to be sorely lacking in many English cricketers.

Jon
on July 19, 2017, 16:49 GMT

I would pick Hameed, not in top form but he has mental toughness. Ballance being picked just to prove his technique is still flawed which we already know just so he doesnt get on the flight to Aus seems like banging your head against a wall for a 20th time to prove the 25th will hurt.

Paul
on July 19, 2017, 16:39 GMT

What a depressing quintet: no one with a f-c average above 39, one who hasn't made a red-ball 50 this season, another who has already been given an extended go at Test cricket and been dropped, a third past his 30th birthday. Can we really not do better than this? Surely better to push Root up to 3 and try Lawrence, a man with virtually his entire career ahead of him, who averages mid-40s and has sustained that this year.

Alex
on July 19, 2017, 16:38 GMT

They picked, dropped and then brought back Compton only to criticise him repeatedly for his pace of scoring and put him under more pressure than necessary. With Cook at 1 and Compton at 2 England averaged over 50 for the first wicket during about 20 opening stands. He's been given a chance for sure and his personal numbers at Test level didn't do him justice but I would have kept him in the side and encouraged him to play his game, not try and bat like his grandfather. With Stokes, Moeen, Bairstow et al you can afford one or two stonewall players.

Yoginder
on July 19, 2017, 16:21 GMT

Out of the list Sam Robson and Haseeb Hameed seem to be a good test players... Ideally jennings should get few more chances... So england should Haseeb Hameed based on his previous experience and they could possibly move Jennings to no 3 or look at including Sam Robson at No:3.

Enough of lefties in Top 6 when u already have Cook,Ali,Stokes(Assured Place) and Jennings....

Reetam
on July 19, 2017, 15:55 GMT

English batting seems to be back in the 90s now, where they would pick whoever was in form in CC and hope he came good in Test ckt. Too much imp on form in CC. Can't believe there aren't any guys who can spot real talents. If we just go by numbers then what's the point of having selectors. At the moment Eng has only Cook,Root,Bairstow,Stokes,Hameed as Test standard batters. Mo is a batting a/r, not a pure Test batter. Rest of the players are nowhere near Test class even if they score centuries on debut. 7-10 tests, (double for Ballance) and we find they are nowhere near Test standard. Hameed looked Test class. Eng ought to have backed him despite his form and CC numbers just as they backed Stokes,JMB after pathetic scores in first few tests. Hameed is a much better investment than recycling Robson,Hales,Lyth,Ballance etc. Look beyond CC numbers!!!

fred2o2118391
on July 19, 2017, 15:49 GMT

get in bell drummond and billy root

joni3s8938994
on July 19, 2017, 15:48 GMT

Tom Westley should of been in before Jennings last winter, he has now shown his class in division 1 so no arguing about div 2 runs not being a good guide ,he has jumped every hurdle put in front of him .

guyajw5204138
on July 19, 2017, 15:33 GMT

@Richard. I was referring to the players in our XI who earn their corn only through batting, namely Cook, Jennings, Root and Ballance. Bairstow, Stokes and Ali are all all-rounders. This means that we have our all-rounders starting at #5 which is too high. South Africa have an extra batter, a specialist spinner, and real pace in their attack.

I'd go with that personally. I think in the England shirt Roy can take more responsibility and concentrate. I also like his demeanour and it reminds me of Pietersen, so I'd roll the dice on him. As a Hampshire fan I just went for the batters on merit and to compliment each other and the side. I like opening up with Burns and Stoneman as there are in great form, but also open together at county level. This should relax them both and with two debut openers they will have to take responsibility. Burns has also captained Surrey recently. Cook has batted 3 before and I don't want Root 3 (nor does Root himself). Roy I like the look and feel of as mentioned. They all just happen to be Surrey players. Coad comes in as I can't ignore his stats this season. I don't mind making a few changes. I feel it's necessary. Dawson is out as 5 bowlers is enough. England need to be bold.

Stuart
on July 19, 2017, 15:29 GMT

It'll be whoever's next best mates with Root after Ballance.

Venkatesh Venkatesh
on July 19, 2017, 15:13 GMT

Barring Anderson. Board & Root rest do not deserves to call them test players ,when conditions are favour them they look like fearsome when conditions are little bit tricky as it happened in last test match they look like novice ,one more funniest thing about England team just average all rounder who performs once in bull moon was compared to Sir Garry Sobers very recently when you look at his performance in the last test match his performance was equal to fourth division cricketer it was laughing stock of the decade perhaps .At least ECB should accept that SA played really well in this test match they deserves the victory & build test team which is good enough for next five to seven years

Alex
on July 19, 2017, 15:12 GMT

Interesting that amongst all the long list of openers tried and discarded since Strauss, the selectors never felt that Stoneman was worth a go, so why now? On the other hand he has experience and maturity in his favour, but players need time to develop Test match techniques so is he the right man at 30? The real issue is that England has failed to nurture and develop test batters. They generally need 2 or 3 series to show if they have what it takes, not 2 or 3 Tests, unless they are exceptional talents like Root. On that basis, persist with Jennings and Hameed while nurturing other young prospects through the Lions. But unless FC cricket is given more importance in the scheduling then I fear that fewer and fewer young players will develop into genuine Test players.

Akshay
on July 19, 2017, 15:09 GMT

The highest average in the group of players recommended is about 39. Says a lot about the talent deficiency in England where they are choosing a player for the position held by Sir Don Bradman and Great Rahul Dravid

David
on July 19, 2017, 15:08 GMT

Hard to know what else Westley has to do to get a shot. Same last season.

ian
on July 19, 2017, 15:07 GMT

Robert: fair point! It's just worth noting that Surrey has not picked either Mark Stoneman or Ben Foakes for t20 matches recently. Reason ((or likely reason, because I do not know for sure): MS and BF have been identified as longer form players and the club is not going to muck with their techniques (or heads!) by asking them to become immediately effective in proper cricket once the massive domestic t20 window shuts! It also works for England should either (MS more likely, evidently) get picked for England. I am utterly convinced that you get the most out of each player by identifying which format does/ does not suit that player's skillls and temperament. I am gloomy about what a sustained run of 50 over cricket has done for Hameed earlier in the season. I know it is not provable that the requirements of one format have a negative impact on a given player, esp. a top order Test batsmen, but I have strong suspicions. Just maybe Surrey shares them!

Noor
on July 19, 2017, 15:07 GMT

Haseeb is the answer. That kid is looked promising. His style like Oldie Mohammed Azharuddin. Leg flick and off flick. Don't look his county average just select and you will have answers.

Cricinfouser
on July 19, 2017, 14:51 GMT

Daniel Bell-Drummond and Varun Chopra should also be considered

Bhavesh
on July 19, 2017, 14:49 GMT

Jennings has only had 2 bad tests but is still a long term prospect, so to rule him out altogether already seems harsh. Malan has impressed for a few seasons, particularly in white ball cricket, and has the skill and temperament to do well. England do not have a specialist spinner so Ali has to bat lower down and play that role, but having him and Stokes means you can play an extra batsman - a test match team does not need more than 5 bowlers, and you still have Root and Malan to provide a few overs if need be.
Possible XI: Cook Jennings Westley Root Malan Bairstow Stokes Ali Broad Anderson Wood/Finn/Rashid.

Graham
on July 19, 2017, 14:49 GMT

Strange to miss Rory Burns out of this, while including Sam Robson. The former is far more compact and - in my judgement - more likely to succeed at test level. I think Joe Clarke and Dan Lawrence are very talented but the openings are at opener and first drop, where neither bat nor could be thrown in. We need enough experience but without the obvious technical deficiencies that Ballance has. I think Stoneman or Westley could both do a job, as could Burns. Dawson must go too, in favour of a proper spinner who England can blood for the long term. The presence of Stokes, Bairstow and Moeen often leads to the view that we can afford a "luxury" player. And we pick a middling county player like Dawson! Use that luxury to blood our most likely long-term spinner, i.e. Jack Leach. Meanwhile, I don't care if Wood has been passed fit, he simply isn't good enough and should be dropped anyway. Woakes may not be fit yet, but I'd play Ball, TRJ, Craig Overton or Ben Coad ahead of Wood.

John
on July 19, 2017, 14:46 GMT

@David
Buttler would be as good as a chocolate teapot in a test match.

The big problem England have is that the counties are in the middle of the pub league (sorrt, T20 Bash) so not playing any FC cricket. It's hard to say who is in form and who isn't right now.

That said, Stoneman or Westley would be my choices.

guyajw5204138
on July 19, 2017, 13:58 GMT

Westley. The guy has class and he is a RH. I'd also pick Lawrence at 5, and move Bairstow back to 7 and Moeen to 8. I really dislike that we have only 4 specialist bats at the moment.

mj39168129558
on July 19, 2017, 13:26 GMT

Stoneman, Lawrence and Clarke in. Dawson, Ballance and Jennings out.

cricfan59912951
on July 19, 2017, 13:23 GMT

Stoneman or Westley me thinks, form wise for sure. Westley is slightly younger so I would go with him.

Nicholas
on July 19, 2017, 13:21 GMT

Westley for me. Another right hander. A specialist number 3. In form. Younger (only slightly, but still) than Stoneman or Malan. Calm head. Funny how Livingstone seems to have fallen right down the pecking order since his T20 "performances". Mental issue?

Malan has the experience of playing some good high pressure games. His attitude and fighting ability is something that will hold him in good stead. Hildreth should have been the no3 since Trott faded away, but age is not on his side now

cricfan9204927856
on July 19, 2017, 13:07 GMT

Nick browne, without doubt !

Jackie
on July 19, 2017, 12:59 GMT

Whenever the word "character" is used to justify a selection it usually means that someone favours the player but there is no other outstanding reason. There was an awful lot talked about the "character" of Ballance which was the clincher according to some media pundits. Well, "character" is in the mind - what is really needed is the skill to be a Test player demonstrated in some superb innings. Until this happens Ballance is being picked because he is favoured by his best mate Joe Root and Lions coach Flower who always speaks up for him. Hussain however was impressed by his amazing "character". Exactly what this means no one will say. Malan's advocacy has a familiar ring. I hope he doesn't fall to the same hype and mysterious approval of "character". Stoneman by contrast convinces by his ability at the crease. He's a quiet type. But there's a huge leap between County and Test cricket. Few make it. We'll see who can. You play against the best bowlers in the world - all the time.

John
on July 19, 2017, 12:36 GMT

Stoneman to open. Jennings to #3. Westley at #5. Bairstow and Stokes down 1 in the order. Leave Dawson out.

Graham
on July 19, 2017, 12:32 GMT

You could add Dan Lawrence to the list, time to move forward not backwards unlike Ballance's footwork

jamiem7184789
on July 19, 2017, 12:27 GMT

I'm surprised no one is talking about Rory Burns, he's been just as impressive as Stoneman of recent and batted for about 2.5 days straight against Hampshire

No featured comments at the moment.

jamiem7184789
on July 19, 2017, 12:27 GMT

I'm surprised no one is talking about Rory Burns, he's been just as impressive as Stoneman of recent and batted for about 2.5 days straight against Hampshire

Graham
on July 19, 2017, 12:32 GMT

You could add Dan Lawrence to the list, time to move forward not backwards unlike Ballance's footwork

John
on July 19, 2017, 12:36 GMT

Stoneman to open. Jennings to #3. Westley at #5. Bairstow and Stokes down 1 in the order. Leave Dawson out.

Jackie
on July 19, 2017, 12:59 GMT

Whenever the word "character" is used to justify a selection it usually means that someone favours the player but there is no other outstanding reason. There was an awful lot talked about the "character" of Ballance which was the clincher according to some media pundits. Well, "character" is in the mind - what is really needed is the skill to be a Test player demonstrated in some superb innings. Until this happens Ballance is being picked because he is favoured by his best mate Joe Root and Lions coach Flower who always speaks up for him. Hussain however was impressed by his amazing "character". Exactly what this means no one will say. Malan's advocacy has a familiar ring. I hope he doesn't fall to the same hype and mysterious approval of "character". Stoneman by contrast convinces by his ability at the crease. He's a quiet type. But there's a huge leap between County and Test cricket. Few make it. We'll see who can. You play against the best bowlers in the world - all the time.

cricfan9204927856
on July 19, 2017, 13:07 GMT

Nick browne, without doubt !

Waleed Zahoor
on July 19, 2017, 13:11 GMT

Malan has the experience of playing some good high pressure games. His attitude and fighting ability is something that will hold him in good stead. Hildreth should have been the no3 since Trott faded away, but age is not on his side now

Westley for me. Another right hander. A specialist number 3. In form. Younger (only slightly, but still) than Stoneman or Malan. Calm head. Funny how Livingstone seems to have fallen right down the pecking order since his T20 "performances". Mental issue?

cricfan59912951
on July 19, 2017, 13:23 GMT

Stoneman or Westley me thinks, form wise for sure. Westley is slightly younger so I would go with him.

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